When the winter weather gets bad, fire hazards and water damage can occur, and heating costs can rise. The following tips can help you prepare your home to prevent many of the problems that can occur during the winter.
Insulate Your Windows and Doors
Weather-strips can be used to cover any cracks or gaps near your windows and doors. If the gaps are thick, use caulk to cover them. This helps stop cold air and moisture from getting into the home and improves your home’s energy efficiency. Installing double or triple pane windows and insulating doors can help conserve the heat.
Check Your Heating System
A professional inspection of your heating system can help ensure it’s working properly. This helps it work efficiently and prevent carbon monoxide leaks.
Regularly Change Furnace Filters
During the winter, change your furnace filters at least once a month. When they’re dirty, they can reduce the efficiency and lifespan of the furnace and increase the consumption of energy.
Make Sure Pipes are Protected
Water pipes can explode because of water freezing inside them and expanding. Faucets near exterior walls should be allowed to drip to help prevent this. Insulating cold and warm water pipes as well as repairing damage to keep cold air away from pipes can help prevent this. Your home should be at minimum 55 degrees even when you’re away to keep the pipes warm.
Find Water Shut-off Valve
If the pipes do burst, being able to shut off the water to the home can help minimize damage. Find out where your water shut-off valve is so you’re ready if something happens.
Make Sure Air Ducts are Insulated
Air ducts that are not insulated can lead to a huge loss in efficiency. Have a professional properly seal and insulate the air ducts to save money on energy costs and help reduce the work your furnace needs to do.
Prevent Ice on Your Roof
Ice dams on your roof can cause serious damage. Make sure your attic is insulated and ventilated. Sufficient ventilation helps let colder air into the attic, which helps keep the ice on the roof from melting.
Keep the Fireplace Maintained
Check the fireplace for obstructions like birds’ nests or buildup of creosote. Make sure the damper can close properly and check to ensure the firebox is intact. A chimney sweep can clean the chimney and inspect it for you.
Have a Roof Inspection Done
Any loose, damaged, or missing shingles should be fixed before winter. Also, make sure your roof is clean as debris can damage the roof’s shingles.
Clean Out the Gutters
Any obstructions in the gutters, like leaves or twigs, can cause water leaks inside your home or ice dams. Clean your gutters regularly and inspect for damages before winter.
Keep Basic Supplies on Hand
Outages can easily occur during the winter months, so keep an emergency kit with food, water, and medical supplies on hand. Keep alternate heating sources with the kit as well as cold weather essentials like salt or ice melt.
These tips can help you prevent property damage in Springfield Missouri to your home during the winter. However, if you do ever experience property damage in your home, call PuroClean Certified Restoration for an estimate on professional home restoration in Springfield Missouri.